“We are pleased that a sensible decision was reached by the parliamentary groups and hope the matter will now rest. It’s about the development of society, the economy, and consumer choice freedom,” stated APED’s Secretary-General, Gonçalo Lobo Xavier, in a statement.
A group of citizens proposed changes to the operating hours of commercial establishments.
This proposal, backed by more than 23,000 individuals, suggested closing shops on Sundays and holidays and reducing their operating hours to a 10 PM closure.
The PSD, PS, IL, and CDS-PP voted against this proposal today, while Chega abstained, and the remaining political forces voted in favor.
The Left Bloc introduced a bill aiming to close large retail stores on Sundays and public holidays as well.
The bill included an exception for cinemas and dining establishments.
This project was rejected by PSD, Chega, IL, and CDS-PP, whereas the other parties voted in favor.
“I believe such proposals do not recognize the reality, the desires of families, and are tied to an ideological will that does not align with the country, the consumer, and what families want for their lives,” remarked Gonçalo Lobo Xavier.
According to APED, common sense and consumer choice freedom prevailed, emphasizing that a potential closure of shopping centers on Sundays and holidays could jeopardize approximately 16,000 direct jobs and additional indirect ones.
Moreover, the social impact was highlighted, noting that weekends are when consumers most frequently shop.
There are also employment consequences, especially for part-time employees and young people seeking weekend work to earn extra income.
“Even the unions tell us that weekends are crucial for workers’ earnings,” he emphasized.
Lobo Xavier expressed great respect for all citizen initiatives but noted that this subject has persistently been brought to parliament in recent years.
